Hidden within a residential building stands the Kaplica Kosciola Katolickiego Mariawitow pw Matki Boskiej Nieustajacej Pomocy. This unassuming chapel on Brunona Schulza Street holds a rich history. It’s a testament to the resilience of the Mariavite faith in Warsaw.
The Mariavite Church itself is a fascinating story. It began with a series of revelations to Feliksa Kozlowska in 1893. This led to the creation of a new religious order. The order faced opposition from the Roman Catholic Church. Eventually it gained autonomy becoming independent of the Holy See.
Our Kaplica Kosciola Katolickiego Mariawitow pw Matki Boskiej Nieustajacej Pomocy wasn’t always here. It’s current location is relatively recent. The Warsaw Mariavite parish previously worshipped in various locations. These included sites on Okopowa Street and Grochowska Street. Eventually a chapel was established on Stanislawa Wyspianskiego Street. In 2003 it was moved to its present home.
The interior of the Kaplica Kosciola Katolickiego Mariawitow pw Matki Boskiej Nieustajacej Pomocy is relatively small. It measures about 60 square meters. The altar is a handcrafted masterpiece. It features a prominent tabernacle. Images of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Mateczka Mother Maria Franciszka Kozlowska adorn the altar. The altar is decorated with symbols of the Eucharist ears of wheat and a vine. Two pillars flank the altar topped with floral motifs. A small posthumous photo of the foundress of Mariawitism is placed on the tabernacle. The tabernacle doors depict Christ knocking at the door a reference to the Book of Revelation. The antependium features a carved Last Supper. Flowers electric candles and oil lamps illuminate the altar.
The modest sanctuary is separated from the rest of the chapel by a small balustrade. This helps in administering Holy Communion. The chapel has kneelers and chairs. Prayer books and publications are available for individual prayer and services. A harmonium sits in the left corner. Images of the Sacred Heart of Jesus the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Archbishop Michael and St Francis of Assisi decorate the side walls.
The Kaplica Kosciola Katolickiego Mariawitow pw Matki Boskiej Nieustajacej Pomocy isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to faith perseverance and the enduring spirit of the Mariavite community in Warsaw. It is a reminder that even in the most unexpected places profound history can be found. This small chapel is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a hub of spiritual life and a vital part of the city’s unique religious landscape.